Location
Wrecclesham, Alice Holt Research Station

Hours
Full Time, three-year fixed-term position

Salary
£30,105 per annum

About the Role
Forest Research, part of the Forestry Commission, is a world leader in applied forest science, providing evidence and practical solutions to policy makers, forestry professionals, and land managers across Great Britain. With climate change, biodiversity loss, and increasing pests and diseases threatening woodlands, our research is vital in identifying resilient tree species and safeguarding those at risk. We support UK timber production and provide robust data on forests in Scotland, Wales, and England, working collaboratively with academia, partners, and industry nationally and internationally.

We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Laboratory Technician to join the Tree Health Team within the Centre for Forest Protection at Alice Holt Research Station. This role supports a range of laboratory activities related to tree health diagnostics and research, working across both main laboratories and specialist containment facilities.

The successful candidate will provide technical support for pathology and entomology projects, assisting with sample processing, laboratory procedures, equipment maintenance, and implementation of biosecurity and health and safety protocols.

Experience
Bachelor of Science degree in plant biological sciences, forestry, microbiology, or equivalent relevant experience. Practical experience in a diagnostic or research laboratory environment is essential. Experience with technical laboratory tasks such as preparing stock solutions, media preparation, and waste sterilisation and disposal is required. Competent IT user with experience of MS Office packages. Good verbal and written communication skills.

About you
Motivated and enthusiastic with the ability to work collaboratively within a team. Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high standards of laboratory housekeeping and biosecurity. Willingness to support a range of technical tasks and follow health and safety protocols.

Qualifications
Bachelor of Science degree in a relevant biological science or forestry discipline, or equivalent practical experience.

Desirable
Knowledge of plant pests and diseases. Familiarity with mycology, bacteriology, or pest identification techniques including culturing or specimen preservation. Experience working in containment laboratories.